OlicanavsAmarillo

Olicana (dual purpose) and Amarillo (aroma) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.

Olicana

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

7–9%

Beta acid

4–6%

Total oil

-

United Kingdom

Amarillo

Aroma

Alpha acid

7–11%

Beta acid

5.5–8%

Total oil

1–2.3 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Olicana

  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma

When to pick Amarillo

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

GrapefruitFloral

Only in Olicana

MangoPassion fruit

Only in Amarillo

SpicyTropicalCitrusOrangeLemonMelonApricotPeachDank

Property

PropertyOlicanaAmarillo
Alpha acid7–9%7–11%
Beta acid4–6%5.5–8%
Co-humulone28–32%21–24%
Total oil-1–2.3 mL
Myrcene19–20%40–70%
Humulene8–9%19–24%
Caryophyllene-7–10%
Farnesene0–1%6–9%
OriginUnited KingdomUnited States
PurposeDual purposeAroma

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